The Bannack Association

Bannack embodies the spirit of the Old West.
The stately Hotel Meade…
The picturesque Masonic Temple…
The melody of weathered wood tones…
The brusque reminders of faded dreams…

Altogether, they blend into a symphony of the past that once was Bannack, Queen of the Gold Camps and Birthplace of Montana Territory.

Each year thousands upon thousands of people from all over the world come to walk once again its dusty streets, tread its weathered boardwalks, and experience the past envisioned in its faded glory.

For over a century its skeletons of board and brick have stood silent sentinel to Montana’s mining spirit and to the very origins of Montana itself.

Despite the ravages of nature and man, Bannack has survived with much of its dignity and its raw beauty intact. It has not been by accident.

Through careful attention, first by individual property owners, and later through the effort of the Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department of the State of Montana, many of the landmarks of Bannack have been preserved for the enjoyment of those yet to come.

Each year weather and vandalism take its toll on these historic buildings and surroundings. Although the State of Montana, through Bannack State Park, works hard in its preservation efforts, it is an endless task.

Join the Bannack Association

The Bannack Association is a grass-roots organization that works hand-in-hand with the State Parks Department to promote and preserve this precious slice of Montana heritage.

Through private fund-raising, promotional efforts, and individual participation, Association members are making a real difference in the future of Bannack.

In addition, the Association is working to develop and preserve historical artifacts and records from Bannack; and prepares and distributes an informative, historical newsletter on a regular basis.

The cost is low. The rewards to its members and to Bannack itself are priceless.

Here are some quick facts about the Bannack Association:

The Bannack Historical and Museum Association was established in 1990 as a formal support organization to Bannack State Park. In 1992 the name was shortened to the Bannack Association.

The Association is a fully-credited, tax-exempt, non-profit organization, incorporated under the laws of Montana.

Its purpose is to assist with preservation efforts of Bannack, Montana’s First Territorial Capital, and promoting its historical and cultural assets.

Members receive a newsletter on a regular basis outlining Association activities and Bannack history.

Activities and events are planned throughout the year to promote the purposes of the organization.

All funds raised through the Bannack Association are used for the sole purpose of promoting and restoring Bannack.